Off Season Projects: Replacing Carpet with Durabak

The off season has arrived and though it may feel like "down time", this is the time of the year to get you and your equipment zoned in for the upcoming year. Now I understand that it's 70 degrees out in mid December and the fish are still feeding like ravenous wolves but your success of this upcoming year will have a direct correlation on how well you prepare for it. Greatness happens when preparation meets opportunity! Your areas of preparation may change from year to year but without question there are always areas of our craft that need improvement when it comes to efficiency and maintenance.

After winterizing the boat, the first project I have elected to take on is removing the carpet from the Tr-21. Now you may be thinking "you mean replacing the carpet?" Carpet for me one of the most inefficient parts of my boat. My carpet wears so fast due to the constant wear and tear from being on the boat 250 days a year. The carpet absorbs water and when I put lures on my deck they tend to rust quicker and easier. Carpet slows down the water getting to the hull of my boat and lingers for a long period of time after rain. It's easier to stain and harder to clean. Carpet is also way harder to install when replacing and a lot more expensive than this great alternative...

The alternative is Durabak, commonly used as a roll on bed liner not many people know it is also a great alternative to a boat surface. Duraback is a textured protective coat that is way tougher than carpet, is slip proof due to its specially treated grit made from recycled tires, is way more water resistant than carpet, easier to install and lastly it costs a lot less. Durabak has a plethora of colors and uses to fit any and every surfacing situation. I am currently in the process of finishing the carpet removal on the boat and then it will be time for the Durabak application! The project will be finished within the week and the video will be posted shortly after. If you have any questions contact me on dreamcatcherguides.com and you can find Durabak at durabakcompany.com